Marcus Smart could be closer to a return than he let on this weekend. The Celtics guard may even suit up for Tuesday night's Game 5, a surprising development that could swing a first-round series with the Bucks.

Smart's potential return would provide an immediate lift to the Celtics defense, which led the NBA during the regular season but has run into all sorts of troubles against Giannis Antetokounmpo and the Bucks.

The Celtics upgraded Smart to questionable on Monday, suggesting there’s at least a chance the guard will return from right thumb surgery in time for Game 5. He previously had plans to meet with a doctor Tuesday in New York City. It’s not clear whether Smart moved up the appointment or now believes he could potentially hustle back in time for tip-off. Either way, he has said he believes he’s ready for full clearance.

Smart’s return would add teeth to the Celtics defense. Through four games of the first round, the Celtics own...

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